Summer is right around the corner, and whether you’re traveling or staying close to home, you’ll want to take care to ensure that the summer months are filled with fun and excitement, not injury or illness. Here are some easy-to-follow tips to help you have the best summer possible:

Don’t Get Stung by Insect-Borne Illnesses
The hot and humid summers of Southern Maryland are the perfect environment for insects like mosquitos and ticks. And while they are often just a yearly nuisance we all encounter, insect bites and stings have the potential to cause serious allergic reactions and illnesses. To reduce your risk, follow these precautions:

• Dawn, dusk and the early evening are the prime times for mosquitoes and other insects. If possible, stay indoors at these times.
• Avoid wearing anything with a sweet fragrance, including cologne, perfume and hairspray — these tend to attract insects.
• Standing water can become a breeding ground for insects. Check out these homeowner tips if you’re having trouble with removing standing water on your property.
• If you must be outdoors in areas where Lyme disease or tick-borne illnesses are a serious risk, take additional precautions — regularly inspect yourself and family members for ticks and be aware of any rashes that may appear.
• Use insect repellents with concentrations that are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

Stay Safe in the Sun
From sunburn to heat stroke, injury and illnesses resulting from too much exposure to the sun and heat are no joke. Here are some rules to follow to keep you safe in the summer heat:

• When working or exercising outdoors, take frequent breaks, drink fluids often and listen to what your body is telling you.
• NEVER leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle.
• Avoid sun exposure during peak burning hours (midday) and cover up with clothing and wide-brimmed hats.
• Utilize sunscreen with at least 15 SPF to help protect exposed skin and apply about 30 minutes before heading outside.
• Take special care when your children will be exposed to the sun. Click here to see the best tips for protecting your children from too much sun exposure.

Safe Travels Start Before You Leave
Whether you are traveling at home or abroad, there are some simple ways you can avoid ailments before you travel. Use this pre-departure checklist to have a healthier, more enjoyable trip:

• Take care of routine dental and medical check-ups before you leave.
• If traveling abroad, read up on any prevalent diseases you may encounter on your trip. Leave plenty of time to get any necessary vaccinations before you travel abroad — some of them may require an initial shot followed by a booster.
• No matter your destination, ensure that you’ve packed enough of your medications to last your entire trip. It’s also wise to have a letter from your doctor with you to prove you legally use the medication if traveling abroad.
• Health coverage doesn’t always travel with you — check your health insurance before you leave!

Now that you’re prepared to have a great summer, it’s time to get out and enjoy the lovely weather!